Keep calm it’s Martini time! When we hear the word martini, we think cocktails. When we think of cocktails, we think cocktail parties. Cocktail parties mean looking classy and gorgeous, and looking classy and gorgeous mean knowing what to wear and what to do with your hair!

So in honor of National Martini Day, we will be talking about how to dress for a cocktail party! Getting all dolled up is ALWAYS fun! Cocktail parties can be held during the day or at night, and the themes range from semi-formal to upscale, to upscale casual. Time, place and season are the biggest factors in deciding what to wear.

THE DRESS

Photos Courtesy of Flavia Desgranges van der Linden

For the most part, dressy casual is the way to go. That means dressier clothing compared to what you would wear on a normal day. Clothes made out of denim, jersey and cotton material are big no no’s. There are a variety of dress styles to choose from, but always keep in mind to go for something that flatters your body! Do not expose too much skin. Cocktail dresses are usually just above the knee or just under the knee.

You can never go wrong with a LBD (Little Black Dress). This will never go out of style, a staple for every woman’s closet! With this, you have all the freedom to go crazy with your accessories. Pick fancy heels and accessories that stand out and complement your outfit. A peplum dress is also another nice option. This feminine style enhances your figure and gives you the illusion of gorgeous curves. Up next are the one shoulder and the off shoulder dress. These types of dresses are sophisticated and dramatic. If you have beautiful shoulders and collarbones, flaunt it! Lastly we have the long dress. Long dresses are very elegant. Some would say it would be considered formal but it all depends on the fabric. Just make sure it’s not too flashy or sparkly.

But who says you can only wear dresses? You can opt for a nice dressy blouse paired with a skirt (not minis) or tailored pants. You can also wear a nice jumpsuit. Wear stylish accessories to complete the look. Never use a big tote or purse, go with a smaller bag or clutch.

THE HAIR

Photos Courtesy of Flavia Desgranges van der Linden

So you’ve finally found the perfect dress. Now what about the hair? Cocktail parties always require a little more effort when doing your hair and make-up. There are many ways you can style your hair for a cocktail party but the go-to hairstyles would be to wear it in a low bun for a more chic and sophisticated look, you can also never go wrong with a half up, half down hairstyle, or a fancy ponytail and top it off with wearing a cute headband or hair piece for a more polished look.

THE MAKE-UP

Smoky eyes, glossy lips and glowing skin – this is the perfect makeup combination and the look we want to achieve. The Little Black Dress has a makeup counterpart: the smoky eye. If you’re not sure what to do with your eyes, this would be your best bet. Make sure to balance strong eyes with more subtle lips. Don’t forget to pile on the mascara and top it off with false lashes to make your eyes pop. Then there’s the power of the classic red lip. Red lips create an instantly sexy glamorous look. Minimal eye makeup would look best with bright red lips; never risk looking like a clown!

Dress. Check. Hair. Check. Make-up. Check. Now you’re ready for that cocktail party! Always remember it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. From the words of the brilliant fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, “I think dress, hairstyle and make-up are the crucial factors in projecting an attractive persona and give one the chance to enhance one's best physical features.” She was right on point and I’m glad we covered all three! Now let’s drink to that! Stay classy ladies. Cheers!